What are the implications for children and their caregivers when access to play spaces is limited?
early childhood education
A level playing field: The commodification of play
In the city of Toronto, one of the options for play is a kid-friendly coffee shop that offers a play area. Let's call it "FunSpot." When I first heard of FunSpot I thought, "What a great idea." But then I discovered that, on top of the premium cost of your hot beverage, there is a fee to access the toys, the little slide, and the rubber mats -- all of it cordoned off from the coffee bar by a friendly-looking little gate. FunSpot functions almost like an indoor park, which is fantastic in the winter months, especially if your child is too young to skate or can't even walk. But do not mistake this for a public space.
